The Colorado Department of Transportation Colorado (CDOT) has reported an increase in drivers who refuse a blood or breath test following a DUI arrest.
Of the 12,994 law enforcement contacts for impaired driving in 2022, just over half resulted in toxicology refusals.
Not only is refusing a test illegal, but it also hinders efforts to keep Colorado roads safe from impaired drivers, CDOT said.
To educate the public on the consequences of refusing a toxicology test, CDOT has launched a campaign in partnership with the Colorado State Patrol, working closely with state and local law enforcement partners to provide resources and education about the law to motorists.
A CDOT survey of DUI offenders found that most who refused the toxicology test did not fully understand the consequences or were advised by a friend or family member to refuse the test to avoid self-incrimination. However, many of those respondents later regretted their decision due to the consequences that followed.
“Our law enforcement partners across the country are doing everything they can to address impaired driving and make our roads safer, but they face an incredible challenge and need our support,” said GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins.
“GHSA’s decade-long partnership with Responsibility.org is helping Colorado raise awareness of impaired driving laws and make our roads safer for everyone.”
